Many people do not want to live in residential care, and want to stay in their own home. This is now much easier as the government has started promoting home care as an alternative to residential care where possible, and where it is the person’s preferred choice.

Others find they are having trouble coping at home and want the security provided by residential care, where appropriate services and support are available. It is usual to have concerns about moving into residential care. People sometimes feel they will lose all control and choice in life.

But, in fact, there can be many advantages to living in a residential community and the reverse is often the case. People can also find they enjoy the social aspect of living with others in a similar situation.

You might like to have a checklist with you when choosing a care home.

• Getting your care needs assessed
• Care plans
• Support for carers who are family or friends 
• Reviewing care needs 
  

• How can I get care at home?

• What is respite care?
  
• How can I arrange respite care?
  

• Does the home offer nursing care?
  
• Does the home have an age limit for residents?
  
• Can I choose a home in another area?
  
• What if I am unable to express a preference?
  
• What information will the home provide?
  
• Visiting care homes you like
  

• Can the local authority help with costs of residential care?
  
• Help with fees from family
  
• Giving away assets
  
• NHS help with nursing care
• Free personal care
• Fully-funded NHS care
  
• The Grogan case

• Meeting immediate financial needs for residential care
  
• Planning ahead to meet the costs of residential care
  

• Welfare benefits
• Lasting power of attorney
• Advance statements
• Advocacy support